Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy

Why It Was Called That

The renowned tooth relic of Gautama Buddha that is kept in the holy rooms of Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, gives the building its name. In Malay, “Dalada” means the tooth relic and “Maligawa” means “palace,” which shows that the temple is both a place of worship and a royal house. It has been a sign of power for hundreds of years because people believe that whoever protects the treasure will be able to rule Sri Lanka.

Historic Buildings and Art

It is a gem of Kandyan architecture that combines traditional Sinhalese craftsmanship with elements of Hindu and South Indian styles. The temple was built by King Vimaladharmasuriya I in the 1600s. It has been fixed up several times because of natural disasters and colonial attacks. The complex of temples has buildings made of carefully carved wood, golden roofs, and small drawings that show Buddhist stories. The holy tooth relic is kept safe inside the main chamber, which is surrounded by a row of golden cases decorated with valuable stones. The temple is still used for worship, and it has a very important place in Sri Lanka’s political and religious past.

How to Get to This Travel Spot: Advice

It is pretty easy to get to Sri Dalada Maligawa because it is in the middle of Kandy, which is a big city in Sri Lanka. The easiest way to get there is by train from Colombo. The ride is beautiful, going through green hills and tea farms. There are also many buses that go to Kandy from Colombo and other towns. It’s best to hire a private car or cab if you want a more comfortable trip. People coming from other countries can fly into Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport and then take a train, bus, or private car to get to Kandy.

Best Times to Have Fun

There are many times to visit the temple throughout the year, but the most enjoyable time is during the Kandy Esala Perahera event in July or August. Cultural dances, fire shows, and elephants with beautiful decorations parade through the city during this amazing event. If you want a more peaceful experience, going during the early morning or late afternoon during the week is best. The temple is busy on weekends and days with a full moon, which are Buddhist holidays when ceremonies are held.

Learn How to Get to the Temple

With easy access from Kandy, it’s easy to get to the temple. The temple is near Kandy Lake in the middle of the city. You can easily get around with tuk-tuks, local cabs, and ride-hailing apps like PickMe and Uber. A great way to enjoy the city’s charm is to walk to the temple if you are staying nearby. The temple is also close to a bus stop, which makes it easy for travellers on a budget to get there.

How to Get Around

As a sign of respect, visitors should dress humbly by covering their shoulders and knees. Before going into the temple, you have to take off your shoes, so shoes that are easy to take off are suggested. Since the temple is a holy place, it is important to be quiet and not use flash photos inside the shrine. Foreign guests have to pay to get in, but Sri Lankan citizens can get in for free. To learn more about the temple’s past and meaning, you might want to hire a guide.

Where to view the Temple from the best angles

From Kandy Lake, you can get stunning views of the temple, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the temple is lit up in golden hues. From the Arthur’s Seat viewpoint, which is on a small hill above the city, you can see the temple and the whole area. Near the temple, the upper floors of the main shrine give a good look at the room with the holy tooth relic.

Strategies for Getting Ready for the Visit

To have a respectful experience at the temple, it’s helpful to learn about its rituals and customs before you go. Because it is hot, it is best to wear clothes that are light and allow air to flow through them. It’s helpful to bring a small bag with you that has things like water, a hat, and sunscreen, especially if you want to explore the temple grounds and other nearby sights. When you go during a holiday, get there early to get a good view of the Perahera procession.

The best places to stay near the temple

There are many places to stay in Kandy, from cheap hotels to high-end hotels. The Golden Crown Hotel, Cinnamon Citadel Kandy, and The Radh Hotel are all great places to stay close to the temple that are also easy to get to. Guesthouses and small homestays that offer a traditional Sri Lankan experience are easy for travellers on a budget to find.

Thoughts for now

There is more to Sri Dalada Maligawa than just religion. It is a cultural and historical gem that represents the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka. This holy site is a deep experience for all travellers, whether they come to see the lively Kandy Esala Perahera, enjoy the temple’s beautiful architecture, or find some peace. When you visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, you’ll be immersed in hundreds of years of history, devotion, and custom. It will be a memorable part of any trip to Sri Lanka.